Soil Introduction vocab

3. The process by which rocks are broken down into smaller pieces through physical forces like temperature changes, wind, water, and ice.
6. The uppermost layer of soil, rich in organic matter and nutrients, where most plant roots grow.
10. In the context of soil, a naturally occurring inorganic substance that contributes to soil composition.
12. The breakdown of rocks by living organisms, such as plant roots and burrowing animals.
15. these fine particles but not the smallest and are formed by a combination of physical and chemical weathering.
16. the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay particles in the soil.
17. The layer of soil found beneath the topsoil, typically consisting of a mix of sand, silt, clay, broken-down parent material.
19. The process of rock breakdown due to chemical reactions, such as the dissolution of minerals by acidic rainwater.

1. Capacity of soil to hold onto water
2. these particles are the largest among the three soil types and mostly formed by physical weathering
4. A vertical section of soil that shows its layers or horizons.
5. Each distinct layer within a soil profile with unique characteristics.
7. The presence of air spaces within the soil allows for oxygen movement to the plant roots.
8. the decomposed remains of plants, animals, and microorganisms in the soil.
9. The weathered and fragmented rock material from which soil is formed.
11. these particles are the smallest of the three soil types and are mostly formed through chemical weathering
13. A group of soils that share similar properties and are found in the same region.
14. The arrangement of soil particles into aggregates or clumps that affects water movement and root penetration.
18. The solid rock layer that lies beneath the soil.